Mega Doctor News
EDINBURG, Texas – For children, summer is a time of excitement, filled with longer days, warm sunshine and a break from the routines and stresses of the school year.
It’s a season defined by outdoor adventures, from swimming and bike rides to family trips, backyard cookouts and carefree play.
As families make the most of the season, it’s also important to stay mindful of the increased risks that come with more time outdoors and greater activity.
From practicing water safety and protecting children from sun exposure to preventing bike and playground injuries, avoiding mosquito bites and staying alert to heat-related illnesses, preparation is key to keeping kids healthy and safe.
Between June and August, a significant spike in pediatric emergency room visits occurs across the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In fact, approximately 25% of all pediatric ER visits each year happen during these months, as children have more free time to engage in activities that may increase their risk of injury.
“Summer should be filled with fun and outdoor adventures,” says Lance Ames, Chief Executive Officer, South Texas Health System (STHS) Children’s and STHS Edinburg. “But increased activity and time outside can also lead to a higher risk of injuries and accidents if families aren’t prepared.”
This increased risk is often driven by factors such as reduced supervision, limited safety precautions and children’s natural curiosity and desire to test their limits.
By staying aware of potential hazards and teaching children the importance of safe choices, parents and caregivers can help ensure a summer that’s both fun and safe.
To help parents and caregivers keep their children safe this summer, STHS Children’s will host its third annual Safe Summer Expo, bringing together local law enforcement agencies and community safety organizations with one shared goal: keeping kids safe and out of the emergency room.
The event will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the main parking lot of STHS Children’s. Families can enjoy arts and crafts for kids, access valuable community resources and participate in health and wellness activities, along with learning important emergency preparedness tips and more.
“Education plays a critical role in preventing injuries and keeping children safe during the summer months, and we look forward to sharing important resources, safety tips and guidance to help protect kids this season and beyond,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “By equipping families with the knowledge and tools they need, we can help ensure children enjoy a fun and safe summer.”
In the event of an emergency, families can count on STHS Children’s. For more than 20 years, the 86-bed facility has been home to the largest dedicated pediatric emergency room in the Rio Grande Valley.
Designed specifically for children, the ER delivers specialized care for a wide range of medical conditions and injuries. Staffed by highly trained professionals, the team is committed to providing prompt, compassionate and efficient care for every child who walks through its doors.
For more information on the Safe Summer Expo, visit the STHS Children’s Facebook Events page or contact the STHS Marketing Department at 956-388-2020 or via email at STHSMarketing@uhsinc.com.
To learn more about STHS Children’s, visit www.southtexashealthsystemchildrens.com.
| Who: | South Texas Health System Children’s |
| What: | Safe Summer Expo |
| When: | Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. |
| Where: | STHS Children’s Main Parking Lot 1102 W. Trenton Rd. Edinburg, TX 78539 |
